Capcom investors abandon takeover protection scheme

The door has been opened for a possible acquisition of Japanese publisher and developer Capcom.

That’s one interpretation of the news that in its most recent investor meeting Capcom chose not to renew a ‘takeover defence plan’ that was first implemented in 2008.

The measures were designed to stop a third party from gaining control of the company by implementing a rigorous approval process for the purchase of stock, one of which was the award of additional stock to existing shareholders to dilute the new shareholder’s controlling influence.

However, the option to renew the scheme has been skipped.

None of which automatically means that shareholders are opening the door to potential bids, of course.

Indeed, Capcom states that it will continue to focus on further preserving and enhancing corporate value and common interests of its shareholders” and that if there is any large-scale purchaser of Capcom stock, we will react to make necessary measures within the admissible limits of applicable laws and regulations”.

Added the company: We will react to take steps to ensure disclosure of the position of the board of directors and other information and that there is sufficient time for shareholders to examine the proposed large-scale purchase and reach a decision.”